Mechanical engineering uses mechanics and energy principles to design, research, develop and manufacture tools, engines, motors and other devices.  At the University of Waikato we align what you learn with what industry requires.

Our Mechanical Engineering programme is strongly based on project-based learning.  It combines mechanical engineering, science and mathematics papers to give you a good understanding of engineering theory and practice.

You will study topics such as mechanics, kinematics, thermodynamics, materials science, structural analysis and electricity.  In your second and third years you can choose papers to focus on either a Mechatronics Stream or a Manufacturing and Energy Stream.

Mechanical Engineering students have unique, hands-on learning opportunities at Waikato:

• You could be part of the Waikato Formula SAE team, where students design and build their own race car, and compete in the Formula SAE Australasia competition, usually held in Australia.
• In your third year, you will work in groups to design, manufacture and test a machine to meet a real-world design brief and specifications.  Students in the past have designed a pin-collecting machine for ArborGen Australasia.

An important part of the Mechanical Engineering programme at the University of Waikato has supported work placements in relevant industries. This gives you the opportunity for paid work experience while further exploring the field of Mechanical Engineering you could choose for your career.

You'll work on major research design projects, creating products with commercial applications, which are then showcased at our annual Oji Fibre Solutions Engineering Design Show.  And importantly, there is also a focus on developing well-honed communication skills that are such a vital part of the profession.

At Waikato the Mechanical Engineering programme is fully accredited by Engineering New Zealand (formerly IPENZ); meaning your degree is internationally recognized and you can work just about anywhere in the world.